44% drop in Council revenue over five years

Despite revenue dropping by 44% over the last five years, Council’s 2017/18 Budget continues to enable the delivery of high quality, value for money services to the community.

With the goal of maintaining its financial viability for the long term, Western Downs Regional Council has delivered a balanced budget that addresses the reality of reduced revenue while still delivering high quality, value for money services to our communities.

Over the last four years Council’s revenue has dropped by more than 44% from $285 million in 2014 to a predicted $157 million in 2018;

Council has proactively adapted how it does business to meet this economic challenge, reducing material and services costs accordingly;

Borrowings remain low at $18.5 million, with Council able to fund its operations without any new debt this year;

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the 2017/18 Budget continues the considered approach from last year with Council striking the balance between the affordability of value for money services and investing in the livability of our communities.

“The financial reality of reduced revenue has not gone away, with Council’s overall revenue dropping 44% from 2014 to 2018. It’s a challenge that we’ve faced head-on by continuing to realign our business model and improve how we manage our expenditure,” he said.

“Ultimately it’s our responsibility to ensure Council can afford to keep delivering value for money services as well as new initiatives each year that build on the strength and vitality of our region.

“I’m confident that this budget strikes the right balance, and even with this year’s increases our rates and charges are still lower than neighbouring councils.

“In fact, the value for money equation is strongly stacked in ratepayer’s favour when you stop to consider just how many different services Council delivers.

“By the time you arrive at work each morning, you’ve already used a long list of Council services – from water and sewerage, to waste collection and a safe road and bridge network, to parks and open spaces.

“Now compare what you pay Council for this range of services to what you pay for other utilities, take power for example.

“In 2017/18 the average residential ratepayer in Chinchilla will pay $2,606 after discount. In the same period, they will often pay an equivalent amount for just power alone.

“This comparison shows that Council provides excellent value for money.”